But when challenged by people on Twitter that boxing was a violent sport, he added, “I respect what you’re saying but boxing has a ref, medics on hand & choice!

“No one is there when you are getting shot or stabbed.”

More than 60 people have been killed in gun and knife murders so far this year in Sterling’s home town of London.

Sterling wrote, “When I was two, my father died from being gunned down to death. I made a promise to myself I would never touch a gun in my life. I shoot with my right foot so it has a deeper meaning.”

An FA spokesperson said, “We all support Sterling and acknowledge the honest and heartfelt account he gave.”

“He and the rest of the squad are focused solely on preparing for the forthcoming World Cup.”

Sterling, a child when his dad was shot dead in Jamaica, shared a picture of the new design on his right leg with his 3.6million Instagram followers.